The government estimates the problem of modern slavery is higher than expected and Anti-slavery International claims the business is "thriving" throughout the UK.

An investigation by Lincolnshire police led to the conviction today, August 11, of 11 people for being part of a modern slavery ring which targeted victims that were vulnerable and homeless - one person was held for 26 years.

The group are set to be sentenced on September 7, 8, 11 and 12 at Nottingham Crown Court for the crime.

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Rooney family convicted of modern slavery

Generally someone is offered what seems like a decent job but then when they start the job the conditions are completely different.

Violence can also be used against the victim once they have started work.

9 of the 11 people who pictured who were convicted of modern slavery and fraud at Nottingham Crown Court

How common is slavery in the UK?

Anti-Slavery International claims it is much more common than people think with around 13,000 being exploited in the UK alone.

But the National Crime Agency have said it's just the tip of the iceberg and there are lots more people up and down the country who are being kept as slaves, but their cases have never come to light.

How can you spot modern slavery?

There are a variety of signs to look out for which may mean that someone is a victim of modern slavery. A person may have false identity.

Director of Anti-slavery International, Aidan McQuade, said: "In terms of observations if you see people living in crowded conditions, they are not using proper work clothes, they are not mixing with other communities, and are driven around from one house to the next.

"If you get a sense they are a slave you need to find out if their identity documents have been taken off them."

He added people also have to find out whether they are paid minimum wage.

To report modern slavery call the government's hot line on 0800 0121 700.